Physicist Salary in Arkansas
The median physicist salary in Arkansas is $128,041 per year, which is 16% below the national median of $152,430.
Physicist Salary Overview in Arkansas (2026)
Arkansas ranks #48 out of 50 states for physicist compensation. Physicist salaries in Arkansas are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $128,041 per year, physicists in Arkansas earn $24,389 less than the national median of $152,430.
A key advantage of working in Arkansas is its below-average cost of living (84% of the national index). This means the $128,041 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $152,430 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Arkansas is significant: physicists at the 10th percentile earn $65,520, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $199,920 — a $134,400 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Arkansas for this role is Fayetteville, where the median reaches $134,138.
Nationally, physicist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for physicists across the country.
Physicist Salary in Arkansas by Experience
In Arkansas, an entry-level physicist earns around $68,880, while experienced professionals earn up to $184,800 per year. The cost of living index in Arkansas is 84% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in Arkansas
| Percentile | AR Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $65,520 |
| 25th Percentile | $90,720 |
| Median (50th) | $128,041 |
| 75th Percentile | $163,800 |
| 90th Percentile | $199,920 |
Physicist Salary by City in Arkansas
The largest employment areas for physicists in Arkansas include Little Rock, Fort Smith, Fayetteville, and Springdale. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Physicist in Arkansas
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Arkansas has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Arkansas
Nationally, physicist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Arkansas's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Physicists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $56,759 over your career trajectory.
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